In his address at the inauguration in Prayagraj, CM Adityanath emphasized that the radio channel would enable individuals in distant villages to receive real-time information about the Maha Kumbh. He stated, “We will deliver all information about the Maha Kumbh to those living in remote villages via these facilities. We can broadcast the happenings in the Maha Kumbh so that people living in these areas can experience the same.”

The Chief Minister acknowledged Prasar Bharti’s efforts in overcoming modern-day challenges, including the evolution of media from radio to visual platforms, while staying true to its roots. He pointed out that Akashvani, once the sole medium to reach the masses, had played a significant role in transmitting cultural and traditional content, including broadcasts of Ramcharitmanas during his childhood. Despite the shift to visual mediums, Adityanath appreciated how Prasar Bharti continued to serve communities, especially in areas where other forms of communication are limited.

On the occasion, CM Adityanath also addressed the broader significance of the Maha Kumbh Mela, highlighting its inclusive nature and the message of unity it sends across communities and faiths. He called the event a symbol of Sanatan pride, where people from all walks of life come together to take part in the holy dip at the Sangam. Adityanath added that the Maha Kumbh serves as a reminder that there is no caste-based discrimination or untouchability, and all individuals, regardless of gender or background, unite in the spirit of faith.

“The Maha Kumbh is not just an event; it represents the Sanatan pride, a grand gathering. Those who claim that there is caste-based discrimination in Sanatan Dharma should come and witness that there is no such division here,” the Chief Minister asserted. “This is a spiritual message of unity, where people from all religions and communities come together and take a dip at the same place.”

Furthermore, the Chief Minister unveiled a statue of the late former MP Kamla Bahuguna during his visit to Prayagraj. He also inaugurated ‘Maa Ki Rasoi’, an initiative by Nandi Seva Sansthan located at the Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital. The event was attended by several prominent leaders, including UP Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak and other state cabinet ministers.

The ‘Kumbhvani’ radio channel will operate at a frequency of 103.5 MHz and is scheduled to broadcast from January 10 to February 26. It will be available from 5:55 AM to 10:05 PM, providing a platform for the people to stay connected with the spiritual and cultural events of the Maha Kumbh.

This innovative initiative by Prasar Bharti promises to bridge the gap in communication and ensure that the significance of the Maha Kumbh is shared far and wide.

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Shashi Kant Tripathi, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of North Central Railway, shared the update, stating that 15 of the 21 gates have already been removed, with the remaining gates set to be completed by December. “The plan aims to remove all the level-crossing gates in Prayagraj so that there is smooth movement of both road traffic and trains, especially during the Kumbh when the crowd size increases significantly,” Tripathi explained.

The decision to eliminate these gates is a strategic move to reduce the impact of heavy traffic congestion, particularly during the Kumbh Mela, which attracts millions of devotees. With both train movements and public road transport contributing to traffic delays, the removal of these gates will allow for better management of the high volume of visitors to the city.

The infrastructure project is part of the Railways’ broader efforts to streamline Prayagraj’s transport system ahead of the Maha Kumbh, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of people during the event. By eliminating the level-crossing gates, the Railways aims to address the challenges posed by the large crowds, improve safety, and minimize traffic disruptions.

In addition to the railway upgrades, the Uttar Pradesh Government has also deployed 350 shuttle buses to facilitate smooth travel for pilgrims and visitors. A team of 22 officers has been assigned to oversee the transport system’s operations and ensure seamless functioning throughout the event, which begins on January 13, 2025.

To further support the event’s logistics, Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been placed on seven routes leading to Prayagraj, with emergency response measures in place. The Transport Corporation has set up a toll-free number (1800 1802 877) and a WhatsApp helpline (9415049606) that will operate 24/7 to assist devotees during their journey to and from the Kumbh Mela.

These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and safe experience for the millions expected to attend the Maha Kumbh in 2025.

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In his speech, PM Modi emphasized that the Kumbh Mela represents the coming together of diverse individuals—saints, scholars, and common people—into a unified collective. “The Kumbh Mela is a grand yajna of unity, where all forms of discrimination are offered as a sacrifice. Here, every Indian who takes a dip in the Sangam presents an extraordinary picture of ‘One India, Great India,'” he stated. “The distinction of castes disappears here, and the clash of communities is erased.”

The Prime Minister also highlighted the significance of the upcoming Maha Kumbh, which will take place next year. He confidently stated that the event would elevate the cultural and spiritual identity of India to new heights. “I say it with great confidence, I say it with great devotion. If I have to describe this Maha Kumbh in one sentence, then I would say that this will be such a Maha Yagya of unity that will be discussed all over the world,” he added.

PM Modi extended his congratulations to the workers and sanitation staff working tirelessly to ensure the success of the Maha Kumbh, acknowledging their dedication to creating “a new history” in Prayagraj. He reiterated that the Maha Kumbh would send a positive message across the country, fostering unity and cultural pride. “Such events send a positive message to every corner of the country and the society,” PM Modi noted, emphasizing that events like the Kumbh had been pivotal in preparing the foundation for large-scale social changes even when modern means of communication were unavailable.

The Prime Minister also took a moment to criticize previous Congress governments, accusing them of neglecting Indian culture and failing to prioritize events like the Kumbh and religious pilgrimages. He said, “The previous governments did not give attention to Kumbh and religious pilgrimages. Devotees kept suffering in such events, but the governments of that time did not care about it. The reason for this was that they did not have any attachment to Indian culture. But today, the government in the center and the state respects Indian culture. Therefore, the double-engine government considers its responsibility to provide facilities to the devotees coming to Kumbh.”

Earlier in the day, PM Modi offered prayers at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, seeking blessings for the successful organization of the upcoming Maha Kumbh, which is set to take place from January 13 to February 26. During the ceremony, PM Modi performed the ‘aarti’ of the Triveni, praying for global welfare and harmony. The rituals were conducted by the ‘Tirth Purohits’ amid the chanting of Vedic mantras. He also made offerings of Akshat, Chandan, Roli, flowers, and traditional clothing as part of the ceremony.

Accompanying the Prime Minister were Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel, who were present at the event to offer their support and participation.

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